Shane Warne and Marlon Samuels were involved in an ugly confrontation as Melbourne Renegades secured a home semi-final in the Big Bash League in front of a record crowd for domestic cricket in Australia.

Aaron Finch's 67 off just 47 balls helped the Renegades to a nine-wicket win with seven balls to spare in front of a crowd of 46,581 which turned out for a fiery Melbourne derby.

Cricket Australia's delight at the success of the much-debated derby formula will be overshadowed by the ill discipline on the field as tempers flared between Warne, the Melbourne Stars captain, and Samuels, the enigmatic Renegades West Indies all-rounder, with several incidents likely to be looked at closely in the coming days.

CA officials are expected to announce details of a disciplinary hearing on Monday, although they will first check on the well-being of Samuels, who damaged an eye-socket after top-edging a ball from Lasith Malinga through the grill of his helmet and needed treatment at a Melbourne hospital. His tournament is assumed to be over.

Samuels angered the hosts during the Melboune Stars innings when he grabbed David Hussey as he was trying to turn for a second run - and Warne let him know all about it when he came out to bat.

In a verbal tirade picked up by Fox Sports microphones, Warne criticised Samuels for his unsporting behaviour at the end of the leg-spinner's second over, grabbing the West Indian by the shirt in illustration and jabbing his finger in his face.

Tempers reached boiling point the following over when Warne fielded a drive by Samuels and flipped the ball straight at the West Indian from close range as he stood in his crease. Samuels reacted angrily at the provocation, throwing his bat over Warne's head as the umpires rushed in to calm the situation.

It was a clear display of gamesmanship by Warne, who was trying desperately to pull his charges back into the match after they were restricted to just 146 having won the toss and electing to bat.The Renegades privately criticised Warne's behaviour as deliberately provocative and theatrical.

In what many will regard as another distasteful aspect of the stand-off, Warne was again wearing a microphone for the benefit of TV viewers and with the game going on used it to defend his actions to commentators.

"What are you meant to do when someone throws a bat at you?" he asked.

The night went from bad to worse for Samuels as he tried to hook a short ball from Malinga and top-edged it into his face. He was forced to retire hurt with blood streaming from an eye wound with only Malinga among the Stars players making obvious attempts to check on his welfare.

Warne later told the Herald Sun: Warne later tried to downplay the drama, saying he didn't expect to be disciplined by Cricket Australia. "I tried to throw the ball to Bobby Quiney and the next minute I decided to get out of the way of that bat," he said. "I'm more disappointed that we lost, that was just a heat of the moment thing. That's just the way it goes, I hope he's OK.

Samuels, acclaimed for his matchwinning display in the final of World Twenty20 in Sri Lanka in Australia, has been a marked man in Australia. Darren Lehmann, the Brisbane coach, was fined for questioning the legality of his quicker ball, a theme later picked up by the Adelaide coach Darren Berry.

For Renegades, it was another impressive all-round team performance with a number of contributors with the ball leading to an easy win.

Aaron O'Brien continued his great form, conceding just 22 runs off his four
overs and taking the valuable wicket of Brad Hodge. He was backed up by Darren Pattinson (2 for 12), Will Sheridan (3 for 36) and the ever-reliable Muralitharan (1 for 27) as the Stars limped to a score well below par given the pace and consistency of the pitch.

The Stars had four batsmen reach 20 but not one of them was able to convert it into a bigger score. All-rounder James Faulkner hit two massive sixes to start the final over before the Renegades took a team hat-trick to stem the flow of runs.

Finch and Alex Doolan (30 off 28) were brutal early against the Stars fast bowlers and quickly took the game away from the hosts with a 70-run partnership in just 49 balls.

The Stars will look to re-group quickly ahead of their do-or-die clash with the Sydney Thunder in Melbourne on Tuesday. The task won't be made any easier by the loss of Malinga, McKay, Hussey and Maxwell to international duty. With the Heat, Hurricanes, Strikers and Scorchers all battling for the final three spots in the semi-finals, nothing less than a win will do for the Stars.

Despite securing top place, the Renegades have problems of their own, with Finch joining the Australian team for the series against Sri Lanka and Doolan (ankle) and Samuels (face) both under injury clouds ahead of their game against the Sydney Sixers in Sydney on Wednesday.

Let's be honest. None of those central to this incident came out smelling like roses - not Warne, not Samuels, not the BBL and not those who miked Warne up in the first place, then turned him off only to, if I remember correctly, allow him back on the air afterwards. It was David Hussey and Lasith Malinga, as far as I could see, who acted honourably as one would expect from those two gentlemen of the game.

on January 6, 2013, 19:16 GMT

I saw a normal over from SW to MS(with his on the field commentary). All of a sudden at the end of his over the guy SW starts cursing at MS(on air). Clint Mcay bowls an over and goes for a few and at the end of the over again after a defensive MS stroke,SW lobs the ball straight at MS who then lobs his bat in the air.Whatever side of the fence you sit on SW started something where there was virtually nothing. Win at all costs I guess. The DHussey incident which was replayed although it was wrong was more of a non-incident. The whole thing was handled pretty well by the umpires and I don't think it should be made bigger than it actually is although I do hope that MS is ok.

ashes61
on January 8, 2013, 16:18 GMT

And what does all this remind us of? Packer's Circus! They hyped up that nonsense, called it World Series Cricket and encouraged the players to display the most outrageous, aggressive & "combative" behaviour. Result: peurile fisticuffs & all the rest, all put on to make it look as if the players thought the results important. The garbage masquerading as cricket in this farce they call the Big Bash will, of course, always be encouraged by commentators who know, nevertheless, how worthless it all is - ditto the officials involved. The futile attempts at putting the seal of approval retrospectively on Packer's Circus haven't worked, and I don't suppose they will with this tommy-rot either.

CricketFan2011WC
on January 7, 2013, 22:40 GMT

@SyedAreYouDumb, I fully disagree. No, cricket must not have these incidents. It should be rather a game of strategy with talent, perseverance and sportsmanship. That makes it more enjoyable. Regardless whether your team win or not.

on January 7, 2013, 16:47 GMT

I think Warne's actions were over the top, particularly his attitude towards the umpires. He shouldn't have grabbed Samuels' shirt, regardless of the point he was trying to make and throwing the ball to hit another player is the behaviour of a child. To me, Warne clearly breached the Spirit of Cricket.

But I cannot believe the number of people that are trying to give Samuels a free pass on this. For a bowler to actually grab the shirt of a batsman while running is an utter disgrace. Have a read of the Laws of Cricket, Law 42 (Fair and unfair play), part 5. In doing so, he also breached the Spirit of Cricket.

It shouldn't be a question of punishing whichever player was the 'most at fault', but of punishing EVERY player that was at fault. Samuels should NOT get a free pass just because Warne was more of an idiot.

SyedAreYouDumb
on January 7, 2013, 8:07 GMT

Gayle will stick up for his buddy Samuels and will reply with either the bat or by his hands lol
Anyway, agree with me or not, these sorts of incidents make cricket more enjoyable- cricket currently lacks such theatrics!
Im actually suprised Malinga tried to help Samuels because I remembered a similar incident during the SLPL when something similar happened and Malinga was the only one not helping the batsman. I guess this incident was revenge for what Samuels did in the T20 final :P

wakaPAK
on January 7, 2013, 7:13 GMT

Oh come on, Samuel didn't want to hit Warne with his bat, He's an international player who can hit a small ball at 100 mph, how could have he missed the big head of Warne; It was an act of frustration after Warne hit him with the ball intentionally and Hussey-Samuels kind of things happen alot in cricket, they should not be taken to the level of grabbing and pulling and then hitting the batsman with a ball. I thought Warne was a mature guy who could handle his emotions and his emotions got better of him and he was like a little school boy. He then walked away like a chicken after Samuel got agitated.

SkylaDark
on January 7, 2013, 5:58 GMT

They both should be ashamed. Cricket is beautiful and should be a gentleman's game. :((

on January 7, 2013, 4:29 GMT

@auroraboy that's funny mate, I seem to recall Australia not being beaten by West Indies in a Test series for 17 years? Fat chance of that changing anytime soon with your lineup....

PFEL
on January 7, 2013, 4:22 GMT

Paul-Rone Clarke --> perfectly said. It is incredibly baffling that samuels was allowed to continue the game, let alone continue the tournament after such a disgraceful breach of basic cricket rules. Even a 10 year old child playing junior cricket would always know better

ygkd
on January 6, 2013, 21:40 GMT

Let's be honest. None of those central to this incident came out smelling like roses - not Warne, not Samuels, not the BBL and not those who miked Warne up in the first place, then turned him off only to, if I remember correctly, allow him back on the air afterwards. It was David Hussey and Lasith Malinga, as far as I could see, who acted honourably as one would expect from those two gentlemen of the game.

on January 6, 2013, 19:16 GMT

I saw a normal over from SW to MS(with his on the field commentary). All of a sudden at the end of his over the guy SW starts cursing at MS(on air). Clint Mcay bowls an over and goes for a few and at the end of the over again after a defensive MS stroke,SW lobs the ball straight at MS who then lobs his bat in the air.Whatever side of the fence you sit on SW started something where there was virtually nothing. Win at all costs I guess. The DHussey incident which was replayed although it was wrong was more of a non-incident. The whole thing was handled pretty well by the umpires and I don't think it should be made bigger than it actually is although I do hope that MS is ok.

ashes61
on January 8, 2013, 16:18 GMT

And what does all this remind us of? Packer's Circus! They hyped up that nonsense, called it World Series Cricket and encouraged the players to display the most outrageous, aggressive & "combative" behaviour. Result: peurile fisticuffs & all the rest, all put on to make it look as if the players thought the results important. The garbage masquerading as cricket in this farce they call the Big Bash will, of course, always be encouraged by commentators who know, nevertheless, how worthless it all is - ditto the officials involved. The futile attempts at putting the seal of approval retrospectively on Packer's Circus haven't worked, and I don't suppose they will with this tommy-rot either.

CricketFan2011WC
on January 7, 2013, 22:40 GMT

@SyedAreYouDumb, I fully disagree. No, cricket must not have these incidents. It should be rather a game of strategy with talent, perseverance and sportsmanship. That makes it more enjoyable. Regardless whether your team win or not.

on January 7, 2013, 16:47 GMT

I think Warne's actions were over the top, particularly his attitude towards the umpires. He shouldn't have grabbed Samuels' shirt, regardless of the point he was trying to make and throwing the ball to hit another player is the behaviour of a child. To me, Warne clearly breached the Spirit of Cricket.

But I cannot believe the number of people that are trying to give Samuels a free pass on this. For a bowler to actually grab the shirt of a batsman while running is an utter disgrace. Have a read of the Laws of Cricket, Law 42 (Fair and unfair play), part 5. In doing so, he also breached the Spirit of Cricket.

It shouldn't be a question of punishing whichever player was the 'most at fault', but of punishing EVERY player that was at fault. Samuels should NOT get a free pass just because Warne was more of an idiot.

SyedAreYouDumb
on January 7, 2013, 8:07 GMT

Gayle will stick up for his buddy Samuels and will reply with either the bat or by his hands lol
Anyway, agree with me or not, these sorts of incidents make cricket more enjoyable- cricket currently lacks such theatrics!
Im actually suprised Malinga tried to help Samuels because I remembered a similar incident during the SLPL when something similar happened and Malinga was the only one not helping the batsman. I guess this incident was revenge for what Samuels did in the T20 final :P

wakaPAK
on January 7, 2013, 7:13 GMT

Oh come on, Samuel didn't want to hit Warne with his bat, He's an international player who can hit a small ball at 100 mph, how could have he missed the big head of Warne; It was an act of frustration after Warne hit him with the ball intentionally and Hussey-Samuels kind of things happen alot in cricket, they should not be taken to the level of grabbing and pulling and then hitting the batsman with a ball. I thought Warne was a mature guy who could handle his emotions and his emotions got better of him and he was like a little school boy. He then walked away like a chicken after Samuel got agitated.

SkylaDark
on January 7, 2013, 5:58 GMT

They both should be ashamed. Cricket is beautiful and should be a gentleman's game. :((

on January 7, 2013, 4:29 GMT

@auroraboy that's funny mate, I seem to recall Australia not being beaten by West Indies in a Test series for 17 years? Fat chance of that changing anytime soon with your lineup....

PFEL
on January 7, 2013, 4:22 GMT

Paul-Rone Clarke --> perfectly said. It is incredibly baffling that samuels was allowed to continue the game, let alone continue the tournament after such a disgraceful breach of basic cricket rules. Even a 10 year old child playing junior cricket would always know better

4test90
on January 7, 2013, 3:34 GMT

Is this the first instance of a player throwing his bat to the MCG turf since Brian McKechnie after the underarm incident of 1981 ???

9ST9
on January 7, 2013, 3:30 GMT

Samuels probably already got his penalty already via that nasty blow - well all know that Samuels is bit of a weird guy - so Warne should have acted with more restraint given the fact that he is one of the legends. At the end of the day we see that this was yet another controversy in the careers of two somewhat notorious players.

Harry_Kool
on January 7, 2013, 2:07 GMT

@Prash Smith . While we are at it, how about the way Samuels grabbed Hussey & prevented him from running a second? Warne was not jabbing btw, he was grabbing his shirt demonstrating that it was not on to do that. He shouldn't have done it, I agree, but Samuels efforts are unforgiveable. Me, a yes man? You are in dream world buddy. I have travelled around the world & been it in over 50 countries, even lived in 3 of them. Unlike you, I see from both sides. Oh, over here at least, we have a mateship culture about backing up your team mates. What Warne should have done was ask him to meet him after the game to sort it out. Perhaps if you had ever played a real game of cricket you might just even understand a little of what is proper etiquette, rather than picking up your knowledge from backs of cereal packets.

Chris_P
on January 7, 2013, 1:57 GMT

I got no problem with Warne's suspension as he should have conducted himself better. Having said that I know what a lot of my team mates (current & former) would have done had someone touched one of our batsman holding him back from running. And the bat throwing incident? That was disgraceful. To react when a gentle lob brushed your upper forearm like that is unpardonable. I wish I had $10 for every time I got hit with a mis-directed lob back to the keeper. I believe in karma, & really, (IMHO) that gash over his head was probably it. All in all, thoroughly distasteful. The less about it the better. I just wish some of these posters would look at the incident with both eyes open, rather than target one person. Make no mistake everyone who posts here, Samuels actions will be viewed FAR more seriously.

zenboomerang
on January 7, 2013, 0:39 GMT

Much ado about nothing... 2 players show poor sportmanship in a match - how many thousands of times has that happened in cricket history?... Gentlemans game?... So doctored pitches, bouncers, over-zealous calling by spinners, trolling by close in fielders are all part of the gentlemans game - yeah right, lol... Then there are the continual media beat-ups & derogatory advertisements like the lead up to the recent Eng v Ind Test series.... Some need to look into a mirror before commenting about sportsmanship...

Tumbarumbar
on January 7, 2013, 0:36 GMT

Why didn't Fox Sports turn of Warme's Mic the moment the confrontation started ? Because they wanted us, the viewers, to get our money's worth that's why. So what if Warne swore, Fox should have had the brains to turn off his mic and they should have the guts to put their hands up and say, "That part was our fault".
I'm not sure what Marlon Samuels was thinking but I have never seen a fielder / bowler hold back a batter. If it had been the other way round the batter would have been out obstructing the field yet the bowler kept bowling, there was no penalty and things went along merrily. A bit of a flaw in the rules there, if a fielder deliberately cheats he should forfeit his next at bat.
If I had been Warne I would have returned the favour to Samuels to make a point and left it at that, grabbing his shirt mid pitch seemed pretty silly. Throwing the ball at him was childish and reprehensible and Marlon's bat throwing tantrum was almost as bad.

PFEL
on January 7, 2013, 0:34 GMT

Warne's behaviour was unecessary and perhaps even unsportsmanlike, but i don't think anything he did was genuinely wrong.
Verbal clashes happen, balls get thrown to the WK and sometimes hit the batsman, players swear. All these things happen sometimes in cricket.
What does NOT happen, and is totally unacceptable, is:
(2) Throwing a BAT at another player . . . that one should be obvious
(1) Physically holding a batsman who is trying to run between the wickets --> that is just ridicuolous and should have resulted in far harsher penalties. IMO that is the worst thing that happened by far. You just can't do that! unbelievable!

HowdyRowdy
on January 7, 2013, 0:09 GMT

Apart from the atrocious behaviour, the record crowd of more than 46,000 was a huge plus for cricket. While the scheduling will always be difficult, the BBL can play an important role in ensuring that cricket defeats the efforts of other sports, particularly soccer, to take control of Australia's summer sporting agenda.

Make no mistake, soccer sees itself encroaching on cricket as Australia's dominant summer sport. Soccer, allied with pay TV, wants to create a year round football culture, where supporters follow their traditional winter code and team, then switch seamlessly to soccer in summer.

While the scheduling of the BBL is still a work in progress, there is a bigger picture in which the BBL will help to maintain cricket's true place as Australia's number one summer sport.

Chris_P
on January 7, 2013, 0:01 GMT

@David Carbone. Watch the replays. There wasn't any ball throwing it was a lob, the same as we view all the time. Warne's reaction was not good, but really.. all these "bash Warne jumpers" are seeing this thru one eye. No mention of what Samuels did which was far worse in both cases. I mean to grab a batsman and prevent him running a second?

Shaggy076
on January 6, 2013, 23:52 GMT

Yes the initial breach was from Samuels with grabbing Hussey shirt. I didnt see Samuels laughing about it and dont consider it was done in fun. THe match referee needed to deal with this after the game. However, Warne stepped in as judge and blatantly disrespected the conduct of the game on numerous occasions and in my opinion should not be allowed to play again in the BBL this year. Its going to be hard for CA as they enjoy the benefits of the money coming in for those that buy tickets to watch Warne to play but his behaviour was unacceptable.

Chris_P
on January 6, 2013, 23:49 GMT

@ Prash Smith. I have seen the replays many times, there was no jabbing, he indicated to Samuels by grabbing his shirt that this was NOT on. It was what he did to Hussey. Get your facts correct! I agree with Harry, Samuels is a disgrace.

on January 6, 2013, 23:47 GMT

Was there a second run when Samuels grabbed Hussey? I've seen Chris Gayle done this, and it was taken as a fun gesture, he wasnt fined...I dont think he prevented a run...if he did that's between hussey and samuels and the umpires, and hussey did not complain did he? That means Warne shouldn't have gotten involved with that issue at all... He's just crying for spot light...which samuels has received for his excellent form in recent times...

SyedAreYouDumb
on January 6, 2013, 23:43 GMT

Agree with me or not, these sorts of incidents make cricket more enjoyable- cricket currently lacks such theatrics!
Im actually suprised Malinga tried to help Samuels because I remembered a similar incident during the SLPL when something similar happened and Malinga was the only one not helping the batsman. I guess this incident was revenge for what Samuels did in the T20 final :P

robelgordo
on January 6, 2013, 23:40 GMT

Samuels deserves a fine for the shirt-pulling on D. Hussey, but that was long finished and forgotten until Warne started it up when Samuels came out to bat. His behaviour was disgraceful, swearing and grabbing his shirt, and I think he's lucky Samuels tossed the bat in frustration rather than wrapping it around his skull. Of course, BBL can't ban Warne because he's their no #1 marketing tool (emphasis on tool), so he'll be only fined too. BBL will also need to look at how player mics work, because Warney starting his defence on live TV isn't a great look either. Still they will be loving the publicity of an otherwise lacklustre tournament to date.

Rondalina
on January 6, 2013, 23:38 GMT

I too have not seen the video however these are too known hotheads. In their altercation Warne had no business touching Samuels at all, topped with Warne swearing which was caught on tape. Warnes' child like antics have been going on for years not even Umpires are exempt. He must expect a response if he insults someone and not think otherwise AND be prepared for it. Warne needs to bloody grow up.
Samuels had no business touching Hussy AT ALL!!
Both need a TIME OUT!!

BobCo
on January 6, 2013, 23:37 GMT

Ignoring the issue of who threw what at who and who is at fault here, can we rewind to the Hussey incident for a moment. I haven't seen it... was Samuels _at_least_ warned by the umpires for pulling Hussey back? It sounds like a blatant attempt to cheat...

V-Man_
on January 6, 2013, 23:36 GMT

Watch the video before you comment on this post or accuse Samule. Some of the reports are trying to make Samule the bad guy. As usual Warne was being a drama queen.

on January 6, 2013, 23:27 GMT

Unacceptable behaviour for a cricketer and worse for a captain.

NSWGroucho
on January 6, 2013, 23:19 GMT

It is good to see that Warne is not being universally seen as the innocent party in this incident, unlike the reporter. What he did was wrong, as was Samuels shirt tugging, but the game is bigger than any player and Warne must answer for his questionable behaviour.

on January 6, 2013, 23:16 GMT

We are agree, at 1st it was Samuels fault, it was a matter between Hussey and Samuels but involving Warne was unnecessary.

on January 6, 2013, 23:09 GMT

Cricket is always a gentlemen's game. We should forgive the cricketers involved in this ugly incident, for the sake of thousands of fans around the world. Let them sort out the matters soon. Enoch

Captain_Oblivious
on January 6, 2013, 23:02 GMT

Both players should be suspended for the rest of the competition IMHO. Poor behaviour from both. Samuels' shirt-tugging was blatant cheating, while Warne overstepped the line between gamesmanship and bringing the game into disrepute. Oh, and to the commenters here whinging about Aussies and English players being the only bad sportsmen, I suggest that you visit a psychologist. Don't bring your own biased anti-Australian agendas in analysing this incident - only makes you people look stupid.

maf17
on January 6, 2013, 23:01 GMT

Warne lost the plot, yes, bur Samuels grabbing Hussey's shirt was disgraceful, and nothing short of a professional foul, a send-off offence in some codes of football. Its obvious after a few incidents this season, the Big Bash needs a sin bin. After the shirt pull, Samuels should have been sent to cool off for 10 minutes. An obvious immediate punishment for his infraction probably would have abated Warne's temper and made him much less likely to take matters into his own hands.

wc1992
on January 6, 2013, 22:48 GMT

this was he was never mad captain of Aus and now he is try is best to win and show ACB that they should have made him captain. when he see defete as low class person he will do low tactic ......simple as that

FRRR
on January 6, 2013, 22:44 GMT

Warne should be punished. He was provoking Samuels

on January 6, 2013, 22:42 GMT

Warne and Samuels were both out of line and should be disciplined appropriately. Warne's behaviour has always been poor but its all he's got to keep himself in the limelight - his cricket skills are long gone.

Boba_Fett
on January 6, 2013, 22:40 GMT

Both should be punished.

Samuels (I presume) just had a brain explosion and if it wasn't for his season being over with that injury should be suspended for a couple of games.

Warne should never play in the BBL again. That was some of the most appalling behaviour I've ever seen on a cricket ground. Unlike Samuels - who could actually use the "heat of the moment" argument with some semblance of a straight face - Warne's acts were clearly premeditated. Absolutely disgraceful.

Casmoore
on January 6, 2013, 22:35 GMT

hello Jonesy2, who was the one who had an issue, marlon are warne? the fact is warne verbal abuse him and hit him with a ball, marlon could have smack him in his head with the bat, but deliberately threw it so wudnt hit him, how can you say that getting hit in the eye with a ball is karma, if thats the case, i hope warne gets his karma by breaking his arm you racist piece of shit!!!

basileatscricketball
on January 6, 2013, 22:21 GMT

Warne showing influence of his career in the dominant Aussie sides of 90s and early 2000s. They played in a very unsporting way, which did contribute towards making them a better team than the present more sportsmanlike Australian side, but did nothing for their popularity.
I think it almost became a political and foreign policy issue for Australia. Although their test team was utterly dominant, they were contributing towards creating a negative image of Australians around the world (especially the parts of it that follow cricket). It is an interesting issue, because the mental side is so vital in cricket. It is not just talent but mindset that is crucial to success. I wonder how much the public relations driven retreat from a win at all costs mentality has contributed to Australia's relative decline as a cricketing force.

on January 6, 2013, 22:12 GMT

Samuel should be punished first for his disgraceful behavior of trying to turn the game of cricket , known as the gentleman's game, to Soccer, the shirt pulling game.

trumpoz
on January 6, 2013, 22:00 GMT

I didn't see the incident. But from reports Samuels held Hussey, was involved with a heated verbal stoush with Warne and threw a bat at him. That's three separate breaches IMHO. Warne was involved in a Verbal stoush and three a ball at Samuels two breaches. Samuels should get a harsher penalty, but both players should be suspended for at least a game or two

on January 6, 2013, 21:48 GMT

I dont like this fight, ground aint for fight it is for playing and fun and love and piece I think Shane warne should challenge him in boxing ring like jessie ryder did the flintoff :D

wakaPAK
on January 6, 2013, 21:47 GMT

I saw the video and samuel didnt hurl the bat towards warne; it was a gesture of anger after what warne did and he just "tossed" the bat in frustration. First Warne touched the Samuel, he grabbed him by his shirt and pulled it; then he threw the ball at him and that was enough for Samuel; What transpired between Hussey and Samuels was completely irrelevant to warne; he should have kept his mouth shut or the tournament managemnet would have dealt with him; warne was not the policeman there; Warne should be ashamed of what he did and shame; it's funny how aussies think it was Samuel's fault.

on January 6, 2013, 21:45 GMT

Warne was in the wrong here, it doesn't mention that Warne swore on national TV and clearly threw the ball at him. If anything, Warne was the immature one in this.

Slidercraft
on January 6, 2013, 21:43 GMT

Regardless of what Samuals did did to Hussey, Warne has lost all respect from me. He initiated over the top verbal abuse (which was heard by all of Fox Sports, you will no doubt see it on youtube) and continued to provoke the same player by purposefully throwing the ball directly at him from 2 metres away. No chance it would have even reached quiney (wickey). No wonder Samuals was fed up with it...what do you expect him to do, he just wanted to play cricket without being sworn at every ball.

KingOwl
on January 6, 2013, 21:29 GMT

Well, if Warne threw the ball at Samuels, then I have no problem with Samuels throwing the bat at Warne. I think Warne is struggling to deal with becoming irrelevant. All big stars have that problem, when they are nearing retirement. Just the other day, he was trashing the Aussie T20 captain. Now this. The guy has always been a bit trashy for my liking. But I do have a problem with Samuels if he prevented a batsman from running. He should be punished for that.

on January 6, 2013, 21:26 GMT

Warne is a captain and a captain has a moral responsibility to set an example. He was miced up and blatantly used the F word and Instigated confrontation for every young kid in Australia watching to observe. Samuels had a brain explosion with the Dave Hussey incident and it should have been dealt with off the field. I really think that Samuels was utterley disrespected by Warne he did not throw his bat at Warne it was away from anyone. He only did it because he was being belittled by Warne. What I saw yesterday was a disgrace. The umpires control of the whole situation just letting Warne get away with pulling Samuels shirt and swearing was also a complete disgrace.

on January 6, 2013, 21:26 GMT

I agree that Samuels was out of line with the throwing of his bat. However all those who are siding with Warne are biased. Warne was the cause of problem and should be held accountable. A cricketer of his caliber should be more respectful toward the game.

gamin
on January 6, 2013, 21:15 GMT

Another publicity stunt by Warnie.

on January 6, 2013, 21:05 GMT

From what I saw, Hussey had stopped going for the second run before Samuels grabbed him. It was just a bit of fun. Hussey was probably a bit wound up with Michael retiring that same day. Warne had nothing to do with it and he started the clash. He was heard (on live television) to have sworn at Samuels the over before, after which his mic was turned off. It's funny how he said he was throwing it to Bobby, when Bobby was behind Samuels on the right side, not the left that Warne threw to. Samuels had every right to be upset. I'm glad that Malinga was the only person in the Stars that actually had a heart to check on Samuels, even after what happened at the World Cup. But well done Renegades on the win. As for the Stars, well I think this is what was needed to wake up Gayle, who will smash the Stars for his buddy Samuels

dalboy12
on January 6, 2013, 21:04 GMT

The Windies boys have problems, what a load of rubbish--- C'Mon Warne just not happy that someone took a bit of the limelight of him so he had to do something about it. It's Warne who started all this and deserves a fine or ban, if for nothing else other than the way he went of at the umpires for the wide. That would not be accepted in any sport and shouldn't be accepted in cricket. Sure a few words between players is alright and to be expected --- but mouthing like that at an umpire needs to be stomped on big time.

Great theatre! T20 is a interesting as watching paint dry ... so this was at least different. It will be SO good to have the Big Bash over however and back to first class cricket and not first class theatre.

PFEL
on January 6, 2013, 20:40 GMT

Disgraceful by Marlon Samuels. Warne was misbehaving a little but nothing to serious or unusual.
I'm not sure why samuels is even playing, wasn't he banned for a suspect action? IMO, now that Murali has retired, we should go back to the old rules for straight-arm bowling. None of this "15 degrees" rubbish. There are too many chuckers in international cricket these days, almost all of them spinners.

njr1330
on January 6, 2013, 20:37 GMT

How is it, that even today, the ball can still get through the grille of a helmet? Shouldn't we all be suing the manufacturers?!

kangaroussy
on January 6, 2013, 20:37 GMT

I miss the days when 85% of Warne's talking was with the ball (with an occasional text message).

on January 6, 2013, 20:24 GMT

The incident was really shocking. I can only think Marlon had some sort of brain storm to think that preveting a run by physically man-handling an opposition player is acceptable. If the umpires were doing their job properly then Samuels should have been removed from the game then and there under a code violation. The fact he was allowed to carry on probably incensed SW. I'm no Aussie lover, but cheating as blatent as that needs punishing during the game. It should have been an instant "red card". The fact that he went on play a big role in the run chase only rubs salt in the wounds.

SCC08
on January 6, 2013, 20:13 GMT

Fact: Samuels should not have thrown his bat, but if Warne had got in my face like he did the over before and then tossed the ball at me I would have also lost my cool. All these comments about Samuels, Warne took "gamesmanship" to a different level. Also this constant describing of every delivery is getting a bit much. He's Austrailia's / Channel 9's icon, he crossed the line. They should both be banned for bringing the game into disrespute, cricket is still a gentlemans game. And Shane Warne, neither you or Marlin Samuels are bigger than the game.

Doogius
on January 6, 2013, 20:10 GMT

Wow. Samuels obviously has an issue (or 4) but more importantly, the BBL has a credibility issue now. Samuels should be in trouble, but Warne was a team captain that abused an opposition player for overs, on microphone, threw the ball intentionally at an opposition player and when Samuels got clocked, sat back and had a giggle and then fronted up in an interview and lied outrageously. If thats not bringing the game into disrepute, what is?

Markus971
on January 6, 2013, 20:05 GMT

Yeh! Competitive Cricket, Makethem earn it!! - I haven't seen the incident between M.Samuels & D.Hussey, but I don't need to, to "Condemn Warnes actions!" -It looks like the same mean spirit, that He & most of the Australians played with through the Waugh years.. They would call it Good Competitive Cricket... ha.
So what if your Winning, when your playing ugly? -So what they'd say... "We're Winning!!, thats all that matters..... I'm an Aussie born in 71 & I've always Hated the way S.Warne plays (although I recently had to put Him in my best ever 15)

on January 6, 2013, 20:02 GMT

Warne deserves to be banned... pelting ball at Samuels... always want to start controversy, those Australians!! Windies players should not have gone there to play!!

Guyanese2Dbone
on January 6, 2013, 20:00 GMT

Firstly both should be charged with unsportsman like conduct. Now having said that Warne was totally wrong for they way he when after Samuels. If you people look again at what transpired you will see that Samuels held D.Hussey after the ball was returned not before. Did anyone saw Hussey going after Samuels. NO! That's because he is a true sportsman. Come on people don't go after the CARIBBEAN boys because they have flair and style and the only thing aussies has is SLEDGING!!

gudolerhum
on January 6, 2013, 20:00 GMT

Samuels started the gamesmanship by holding on to Hussey's shirt. Imagine if the situation had been reversed and it was Hussey who was holding Samuels's shirt! OMG!
Samuels definitely has issues; his action was not correct when he started, it was supposed to have been corrected but if one watches him now it looks awfully suspicious even from the vantage point of a TV. He needs to be reexamined but that may not be politically correct.
Warne and Hussey were expected/entitled to have a go at him when he came to bat, but Warne went too far when he threw the ball, fairly gently, and hit him. That was unnecessary and he must be disciplined. Samuels also needs disciplining for his part and the bat throwing.
Children misbehaving.
I sincerely hope Samuels eye injury is not serious and wish him well and a speedy recovery.

on January 6, 2013, 19:57 GMT

Australians always think they do nothing wrong. Samuels was just kidding with Hussey because the run wasn't even on and the stuck up Australian can't take a joke. Warne actually hit Samuels with the ball as replays showed and not one fielder was around so I don't know where he was throwing it. Samuels didn't hit him with the bat so I think Warne was lucky.

Ncnotorious
on January 6, 2013, 19:50 GMT

Warne feels he can do anything on the cricket field and get away with it, all Australians think they can infact. The class-less so called "spin king" will never be as respected as some the legends are because of his behaviors on the field. I wudnt have thrown the bat over his head btw, I would have thrown it at his head.

Patrick_
on January 6, 2013, 19:36 GMT

Why did Warne throw ball to Samuels' body ? If he had issues with Samuels it should have been reported to Match Referee or Umpires on the field. His actions and abuse were too bad especially since it was live on Tv with microphone. This should be strongly dealt with and do not hide it under carpet with words like 'gamesmanship'.

AK47_pk
on January 6, 2013, 19:34 GMT

Warne shud be banned for atleast couple of seasons. He is a disgrace to the game. From having contacts with bookies (in past) nd then using drugs (innocently lol) nd now hitting a batsman with the ball. List is too too long to tolerate him. Y marlon didnt hit him will always disappoint me.

johnathonjosephs
on January 6, 2013, 19:25 GMT

Obviously both are wrong. Samuels had no right to hold on Hussey, but Warne had no right to provoke him by throwing a ball at him (tossing it up really). Samuels seems to have a anger problem and Warne is just really not a gentleman of the game. Cursing on national television where many children are watching and looking up to him ----> not a good idea

on January 6, 2013, 19:20 GMT

I would just like to formally retract all those times I said Warne would have made a great test captain.

on January 6, 2013, 19:05 GMT

@harry_Kool. It is strange how you mention Samuals throwing a bat but you never mentioned that Warne jabbed his fingers into Samuals and threw the ball at him. You can't have double stands you know! this is exactly what is wrong with the world today. People like you who are the "yes men" to the rich and famous. We have seen how such things turn out.. Salem Witch trials anyone?

on January 6, 2013, 19:02 GMT

Right well Warne had absolutely no right to speak to Samuals about the incident nor "jab a finger" into his face according to the article. Samuals should not have grabbed Hussey. They are both at fault but the biggest culprit is Warne. The umpires must have been rubbish because it sounds from the article that they only stepped in when a lot of the damage had been done. This is what happens when you hire 20/20 amateurs to officiate in these silly 20/20 matches. Warne I hope will be disciplined. Us normal people who don't get paid loads of money have to deal with bad people everyday but we do not resort to violence. Cricketers in my opinion have such an easy life compared to the rest of us.

jonesy2
on January 6, 2013, 18:23 GMT

seriously though what is problem with these windies boys? is it serious or just a bit of onfield stuff? why do teams recruit them they are all so incredibly overrated anyway.

TheXI
on January 6, 2013, 18:20 GMT

Yes, its "gamesmanship" when an Australian does something like this.

jonesy2
on January 6, 2013, 18:16 GMT

samuels obviously has more than a few issues. the guy has to be banned until he sorts himself out. he and a few of his windies mates are absolute disgraces. made an absolute nut of himself disrepecting the great man, should be honoured to be playing in the world best league and in the world best cricketing nation. love how the king put him in his place samuels looked like a frightened child. funny how karma intervened at the end there.

richardror
on January 6, 2013, 18:12 GMT

Coming from an Englishman, I have always liked Shane Warne and find Samuels a bit immature. Balls get thrown at the stumps and keeper with the batsmen in the way a lot (often out of frustration) but it does not warrant throwing your bat.

on January 6, 2013, 17:53 GMT

"What a Disgrace this is From Warne!!
He Killed the Spirit of Cricket!! Specially We All Know How Great Australian were in the Field.. Guys Like Gili,Mcgrath,murali etc...
Today is a Very Sad Day for Cricket.. I Reckon Big Bash League Will Ban Warny from Rest of the BBL to Show the Worth of Cricket!!
Even though I am a Stars Fan I Condemn the Rude of WARNY!!
Look How Legends Playing Cricket.. You Will Never Gonna Reach the Status of Mcgrath or Lara Never.. You May be a Good Bowler but not a Good Human!!!"

max1978
on January 6, 2013, 17:41 GMT

I am not defending samuels action but in general the Australians and English players are never wrong. They do as they like.

on January 6, 2013, 17:34 GMT

Lol Warne had no reasons to come to samuels like that, warne started it

on January 6, 2013, 17:34 GMT

Both were equally responsible....samuels shouldn't have stopped hussey but that alone doesn't allow warne to throw ball at samuels it was definately blatant unsportsman behaviour ....but the reaction of samuels was also outrageous the throwing of bat was an absolute disgrace...shame on both......

auroraboy
on January 6, 2013, 17:23 GMT

dont worry MS, these aussies are just upset they lost the world cup and they cricket is in decline. we gon look dem after in the upcoming series and show dem what pace bowling is about

on January 6, 2013, 17:21 GMT

InsideHedge.....read the article again mate, by the way Malinga gave samuels the deserve justice........Samuel's is a disgrace to the game of cricket, ICC should take some serious action against him. May be his Tom-hawk is lengthier than the rest of the players,but yet that doesn't give him the license to behave as he likes while he's involve in the game of cricket.

suve
on January 6, 2013, 17:15 GMT

If Marlon swore on live television specially with a microphone on, then he would've been fined or suspended from playing BBL cricket. I love Shane Warne and his bowling but the way he acted was completley disgraceful. He obviously threw the ball at him on purpose too. Not to forget shane's interview at the end was embarrassing too. Marlon shouldn't have held Hussey either but Warne had no reason to act that way.

on January 6, 2013, 17:06 GMT

That is awesome. Real derby,reminded me off the recent ManChester Derby.

on January 6, 2013, 16:52 GMT

shane's action is correct, i mean some had to drive some sense into Samuels since he doesn't now how to conduct himself in the filed,

PACERONE
on January 6, 2013, 16:50 GMT

Australians and Englishmen are allowed to get away with bad behaviour all the time.They now think that they have a license to do as they please.Broad from England is a perfect example.Samuels should not of grabbed Hussey,but for Warne to play judge and executioner is uncalled for.He is lucky he was not dealing with Roy Gilchrist with a bat or ball in his hand.Do not be surprised if Samuel gets suspended and Warne nothing.Remember the Benn incident ?

Chris_P
on January 6, 2013, 16:36 GMT

@David Brumby Amen to your post. These clowns (Pollard & Samuels) have done cricket & West Indian cricket a huge disservice. I am still stunned watching the replays of Samuels physically grabbing Hussey preventing a second run. The next ball saw a wicket from the end Hussey should have been! I said it before & I'll say it again, a total disgrace to cricket.

Webba84
on January 6, 2013, 16:36 GMT

Sounds like both of them embarrassed themselves in the match. Hope they learn from it.

InsideHedge
on January 6, 2013, 16:36 GMT

Warne left with blood pouring from a cut face - SWEET JUSTICE.

Harry_Kool
on January 6, 2013, 16:29 GMT

Come on Marlon, you are NOT allowed to grab batsmen to prevent them running a run. What the hell is that about? And your bat tossing effort? You are kidding, right? Your threw the bat, unlike your bowling, with a straight arm!

Metro-ant
on January 6, 2013, 16:27 GMT

Wow at least Warney didn't blame the throw on his mother this time. Since when has Warney been the shining example of sportsmanship in the game, everyone knows of his 'mental disintegration' techniques so it's a bit hypocritical of Warney to talk.

Chris_P
on January 6, 2013, 16:24 GMT

@ExtremeSpeed. Do yourself a favour & watch the highlights. Samuels grabbed David Hussey's shirt & prevented him from running a second. And you're right, there is no need for someone like this playing int he BBL, he is an outright disgrace to cricket. Overated BBL? You mean the ocmpetition that has provided 2 champions in the global arena? Got it.

on January 6, 2013, 16:22 GMT

I haven't seen the match. Most times it is tape delayed over here but I think that this whole episode started with Leyman questioning again MS bowling action. These aussies think they are the end all and be all when it comes to bowling actions. The guy is probably fed up after being cleared by the ICC, constantly being heckled and having all other bowlers get a free pass. Botha was questioned some time ago and I don't see anyone heckling Botha. What about Tait hurling down 150 km/hr rockets. Ranatunga said recently he created a monster by defending Muralitharan and up to this day people still believe that MM chucks but no one heckles MM. Either you accept the ICC or not.I am not saying that what he did is right but Warne is equally to blame for antagonizing the situation.

on January 6, 2013, 16:20 GMT

Maybe you should try your over rated IPL there extremeslowness. Samuels and Pollard have been showing what disgusting sportsmen they are this entire BBL. Every game and the first thing they do is start mouthing out abuse and insults at every opponent. yet again Tonight Samuels does the most disgraceful thing seen on a cricket field for years when he physically grabbed Hussey to prevent him from running. Finally Warne stood up to these poor West Indians. If either Samuels or Pollard were caucasian there would be uproar over their disgusting behaviour in every match.

cool7645
on January 6, 2013, 16:19 GMT

Fantastic confrontation. Great for crowd. Great for viewers. Lets hope bureaucratic officials trying to justify their positions don't hand out bans or fines as cricket has become far to sterile. The more of this type of passion and action the better for game!!

Zahidsaltin
on January 6, 2013, 16:17 GMT

With a history of bad behaviour, you always expect it from Warne.

igorolman
on January 6, 2013, 16:11 GMT

@Paul Varney: Couldn't have said it better myself. There are just so many spinners out there nowadays who chuck blatantly.
NOT Saeed Ajmal, I hasten to say, he just bowls with a bent arm, which is perfectly legal.

on January 6, 2013, 15:39 GMT

Don't worry Marlon. There are two leagues in the USA better suited to your bowling. The American League and the National League. You get to stand on a mound too.

The_Ashes
on January 6, 2013, 15:34 GMT

Can't believe Sky Sports have Shane Warne as part of their panel team despite the foul language he used. This is bad for the general audience if you know what I mean but yeah Samuels shouldn't have done that and started the rift.

ExtremeSpeed
on January 6, 2013, 15:12 GMT

Don't worry Samuels, these Australians are probably just upset to what West Indies did to them at the World T20. No need for you to play in this overrated BBL, you have plenty of other worthwhile leagues to play for where people love watching you.

ygkd
on January 6, 2013, 21:40 GMT

Let's be honest. None of those central to this incident came out smelling like roses - not Warne, not Samuels, not the BBL and not those who miked Warne up in the first place, then turned him off only to, if I remember correctly, allow him back on the air afterwards. It was David Hussey and Lasith Malinga, as far as I could see, who acted honourably as one would expect from those two gentlemen of the game.

on January 6, 2013, 19:16 GMT

I saw a normal over from SW to MS(with his on the field commentary). All of a sudden at the end of his over the guy SW starts cursing at MS(on air). Clint Mcay bowls an over and goes for a few and at the end of the over again after a defensive MS stroke,SW lobs the ball straight at MS who then lobs his bat in the air.Whatever side of the fence you sit on SW started something where there was virtually nothing. Win at all costs I guess. The DHussey incident which was replayed although it was wrong was more of a non-incident. The whole thing was handled pretty well by the umpires and I don't think it should be made bigger than it actually is although I do hope that MS is ok.

ExtremeSpeed
on January 6, 2013, 15:12 GMT

Don't worry Samuels, these Australians are probably just upset to what West Indies did to them at the World T20. No need for you to play in this overrated BBL, you have plenty of other worthwhile leagues to play for where people love watching you.

The_Ashes
on January 6, 2013, 15:34 GMT

Can't believe Sky Sports have Shane Warne as part of their panel team despite the foul language he used. This is bad for the general audience if you know what I mean but yeah Samuels shouldn't have done that and started the rift.

on January 6, 2013, 15:39 GMT

Don't worry Marlon. There are two leagues in the USA better suited to your bowling. The American League and the National League. You get to stand on a mound too.

igorolman
on January 6, 2013, 16:11 GMT

@Paul Varney: Couldn't have said it better myself. There are just so many spinners out there nowadays who chuck blatantly.
NOT Saeed Ajmal, I hasten to say, he just bowls with a bent arm, which is perfectly legal.

Zahidsaltin
on January 6, 2013, 16:17 GMT

With a history of bad behaviour, you always expect it from Warne.

cool7645
on January 6, 2013, 16:19 GMT

Fantastic confrontation. Great for crowd. Great for viewers. Lets hope bureaucratic officials trying to justify their positions don't hand out bans or fines as cricket has become far to sterile. The more of this type of passion and action the better for game!!

on January 6, 2013, 16:20 GMT

Maybe you should try your over rated IPL there extremeslowness. Samuels and Pollard have been showing what disgusting sportsmen they are this entire BBL. Every game and the first thing they do is start mouthing out abuse and insults at every opponent. yet again Tonight Samuels does the most disgraceful thing seen on a cricket field for years when he physically grabbed Hussey to prevent him from running. Finally Warne stood up to these poor West Indians. If either Samuels or Pollard were caucasian there would be uproar over their disgusting behaviour in every match.

on January 6, 2013, 16:22 GMT

I haven't seen the match. Most times it is tape delayed over here but I think that this whole episode started with Leyman questioning again MS bowling action. These aussies think they are the end all and be all when it comes to bowling actions. The guy is probably fed up after being cleared by the ICC, constantly being heckled and having all other bowlers get a free pass. Botha was questioned some time ago and I don't see anyone heckling Botha. What about Tait hurling down 150 km/hr rockets. Ranatunga said recently he created a monster by defending Muralitharan and up to this day people still believe that MM chucks but no one heckles MM. Either you accept the ICC or not.I am not saying that what he did is right but Warne is equally to blame for antagonizing the situation.

Chris_P
on January 6, 2013, 16:24 GMT

@ExtremeSpeed. Do yourself a favour & watch the highlights. Samuels grabbed David Hussey's shirt & prevented him from running a second. And you're right, there is no need for someone like this playing int he BBL, he is an outright disgrace to cricket. Overated BBL? You mean the ocmpetition that has provided 2 champions in the global arena? Got it.

Metro-ant
on January 6, 2013, 16:27 GMT

Wow at least Warney didn't blame the throw on his mother this time. Since when has Warney been the shining example of sportsmanship in the game, everyone knows of his 'mental disintegration' techniques so it's a bit hypocritical of Warney to talk.